Final answer:
Pertussis in children is marked by severe coughing without fever, and sometimes signs of conjunctivitis, with auscultatory and radiologic findings that do not match the child's healthy appearance. Symptoms can emerge some time after birth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pertussis in children is characterized by the absence of fever, inspiration between every single cough, a history of concurrent conjunctivitis, and auscultatory and radiologic findings out of proportion to the healthy appearance of the child. Although transmission can take place at birth, symptoms usually appear later.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly communicable disease caused by Bordetella pertussis. The infection is particularly severe in infants and children and is characterized by mucus accumulation in the lungs, resulting in severe coughing. The cough may be accompanied by a 'whoop' sound due to the inflamed and restricted airway. The disease is most infectious during the catarrhal stage, which presents with mild symptoms such as nasal congestion and a low-grade fever. Progression can lead to the paroxysmal stage, marked by severe and prolonged coughing spells.
Despite the potential severity of the disease, affected children can appear remarkably healthy, sometimes leading to underdiagnosis. It is important for healthcare providers to recognize the signs early to prevent complications, especially since infants may experience more serious consequences such as rib fractures or, in severe cases, death.